I think the audiologist is probably technically right. REM will not optimise speech in noise, but the danger is, if you don’t have REM, you will either have under or over-amplification across all frequencies, or an inbalance causing masking, which would lead to undesirable outcomes in general which are exacerbated in a speech in noise situation. I can personally testify to this.
REM is the only diagnostic, which after it’s performed, that I know immediately has worked, as all sounds are perfectly balanced. With digital hearing aids, I never quite feel this after just a simple audiometry test and adjustments, or in-situ audiometry.
I think theres’ two ways to run a hearing business.
Fast in and out. See more customers. Make more money. Heck, this is like selling eyeglasses.
Passion. Really solve hearing issues for customers. Help the public as the wonderful Pros do here responding to our questions and needs. My hat is off to these people. Our Pros.